Lionel Messi Prepares for Argentina Farewell as Expanding Business Empire Takes Shape
Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi will end his international career with Argentina on his 208th cap against Benin.
- Messi is pursuing football ownership, acquiring Spanish sides UE Cornella and CD Eldense alongside co-founding Deportivo LSM in Uruguay.
- Backed by an estimated $1.1 billion net worth, Messi holds stakes in hospitality, real estate, and future equity in Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi is set to make his final appearance for Argentina in a friendly against Benin at the Monumental in Buenos Aires. Marking his 208th cap, the match brings a close to an illustrious international career with the national team. The record goalscorer confirmed his international retirement following a World Cup final defeat, stating he had nothing left to give, though Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni noted the door remains open should Messi ever change his mind.
While Messi's Inter Miami contract extends through the 2028 season with annual reviews, the forward has already orchestrated an extensive transition toward club ownership rather than coaching. In Spain, he acquired fifth-tier outfit UE Cornella as a youth development base and recently purchased second-tier club CD Eldense, appointing former Villarreal manager Javi Calleja to maintain division status. Following Eldense's recent victory, Messi publicly signaled his commitment, which immediately attracted approximately a dozen commercial sponsors to the club.
His strategic football network also encompasses Uruguay, where Messi and Luis Suarez established Deportivo LSM, quickly securing promotion to the third tier. Beyond Europe and South America, Messi holds future equity options in Inter Miami upon his playing retirement. Meanwhile, his commitment to grassroots development continues through the expanding Messi Cup, an Under-16 tournament hosted at Inter Miami's facilities featuring top European academies including Barcelona, Chelsea, and Atletico Madrid.
Messi's commercial investments reflect a total net worth estimated by Forbes at $1.1 billion, driven by $140 million in annual combined earnings. His portfolio features a lifetime Adidas endorsement, the MiM Hotels boutique chain operated by Melia, luxury real estate projects in Rosario alongside Angel Di Maria, and regional hospitality ventures. As his competitive chapter winds down, Messi is positioned to transition smoothly into hands-on sports management and international enterprise.
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